MEDIA
CONTACT: Matt Cardoza, (404) 651-7358, mcardoza@gadoe.org
or Meghan Frick, (404) 656-5594, mfrick@doe.k12.ga.us
February 12, 2015 – Georgia’s school climate surveys, which
help determine the social, emotional, and physical safety of a school
environment, are being used as a model for the nation. Four of Georgia’s
surveys for parents, students, and school personnel will be shared by the National PBIS Center as an
example for educators working to implement a similar framework.
PBIS, which
stands for “Positive
Behavioral Interventions and Supports,” is a proactive, research-supported
approach to behavior issues that focuses on teaching and reinforcing
appropriate behavior skills. School climate is an important part of this work,
because students cannot learn when they feel unsafe emotionally, socially, or
physically.
“In a school
with a positive climate, students are better prepared to achieve academically,
succeed in their future careers, and ultimately have a better quality of life,”
State School Superintendent Richard Woods said. “They have better test scores
and they have higher graduation rates.”
The surveys
will be posted on www.pbisapps.org, which
hosts resources for more than 25,000 schools implementing PBIS.
More
Information:
Georgia School
Climate Surveys: http://www.gadoe.org/curriculum-instruction-and-assessment/curriculum-and-instruction/gshs-ii/Pages/Georgia-Student-Health-Survey-II.aspx
